(Yicai Global) Nov. 5 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday announced the opening of the first China International Import Expo (CIIE) at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

The CIIE is the world's first national-level expo themed on import, said Xi, adding that the event shows China's persistent stance on supporting the multilateral trading system and promoting development of free trade. 

Xi expressed a warm welcome to the guests from all over the world. 

There are a total of 172 countries, regions and international organizations participating in the event. More than 3,600 enterprises have signed up for the exhibition which covers an area of 300,000 square meters, Xi said.